Vintage Japanese Roof Tile, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-139-2

Japanese Onigawara Roof Tile | Decorative Garden Accent & Living Room Sculpture, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-139-2

A boldly sculpted Japanese architectural tile fragment bearing flowing cloud-scroll motifs and a classic floral medallion -- a striking relic of traditional Japanese roof craft.

An onigawara is a decorative Japanese roof tile placed at the ridge or eave ends of traditional structures -- temples, shrines, farmhouses, and merchant homes -- to ward off evil spirits and signal the prestige of the building. This example, formed from dense fired clay in the characteristic dark blue-grey (nezumi-iro) finish of Japanese roof tile, showcases the robust three-dimensional modeling typical of skilled tile makers (kawara-shi). The front face is dominated by a raised floral or wheel medallion set within a lobed cartouche, flanked on either side by sweeping cloud-scroll (kumo) wings that curl dramatically outward and downward, giving the piece a powerful, almost heraldic presence. The reverse shows the solid, thick body construction used in period Japanese architectural ceramics. Minor edge chips and surface weathering throughout are entirely consistent with genuine architectural use and add authenticity to this piece of vintage Japanese craft.

Removed from active rooflines, onigawara have become coveted decorative objects in their own right. Display this piece as a living room accent or entryway statement -- its commanding sculptural silhouette and wabi-sabi aesthetic read beautifully on a low shelf, console table, or stacked stone plinth. Garden collectors prize these tiles as outdoor decorative accents alongside plantings or within a Japandi-style courtyard arrangement. It also makes a memorable gift for collectors, architects, or anyone drawn to the raw beauty of Japanese antique architectural salvage.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Fired clay (yakimono) -- traditional Japanese roof tile, dark blue-grey glaze/patina
• Use: Decorative architectural roof tile (onigawara); placed at ridge or eave ends of traditional Japanese buildings to repel misfortune and mark structural pride
• Modern Use: Living room or entryway sculptural accent; garden or courtyard decorative display; unique gift for collectors of Japanese antique architectural salvage
• Features: Boldly modeled floral wheel medallion within a lobed cartouche; sweeping bilateral cloud-scroll (kumo) wings curving to flanged feet; thick solid body construction; dark blue-grey fired surface with natural weathering patina; minor edge chips consistent with architectural age
• Dimensions: 19"W x 4 1/2"D x 12 1/2"H
• Condition: Good -- minor chips and surface weathering consistent with age and prior architectural use; structurally sound

A powerful fragment of Japanese architectural heritage -- this vintage onigawara roof tile brings the wabi-sabi spirit of traditional Japanese craft into any modern home or garden setting.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.